Exercise machine

ABSTRACT

An exercise device including a first platform with an upper wall and side walls. Connector assemblies are engaged with each side wall and are selectively movable therealong. A first end of each resistance band is selectively engageable with one of the connector assemblies. A user positioned on the upper wall engages the second end of each resistance band to perform resisted arm curls. A harness worn on the user&#39;s torso is engaged with second ends of the resistance bands and rollers on the harness engage a vertical surface when performing squats. The exercise device includes a second platform that pivots relative to the first platform and is locked in position to present the vertical surface for the rollers. A third platform is pivotally engaged with the second platform and is positionable to present a chin-up bar. Resistance bands engage connector assemblies on the third platform for performing pull-down type exercises.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Technical Field

This invention relates generally to athletic equipment. More particularly, this invention relates to home gym equipment. Specifically, this invention is directed to a device having one or more platforms hingedly secured together and having connector assemblies movably engaged on some of the side walls thereof and to which resistance bands may be secured for performing arm curls, squats, and pull-down type exercises when the user stands on the platform. The device includes a chin-up bar engaged on a free end of one of the platforms.

2. Background Information

We live in a very exercise conscious society. Amongst those who regularly work-out there is tendency to over-exert themselves, especially when it comes to lifting weights. The most common danger is that people, when they first begin to lift weights, do not slowly work weight lifting into their exercise routine. Lifting too frequently or lifting weights that are too heavy too soon can lead to serious muscle strain and injury. It is most advisable to slowly integrate light weights at low repetition rates into a regular exercise schedule and then increasing the weight and repetitions over time.

Another danger for the more experienced person is that people tend to become tempted to lifted heavy weights without sufficient and proper supervision. In spite of what most people think, there is always a possibility of dropping a weight and getting trapped under a failed lift. Without somebody who is experienced and strong enough to act as a spotter, a person may be seriously injured if they fail to successfully lift the weight they have selected.

Resistance training involves the application of elastic or hydraulic resistance to strengthen contracting muscles rather than using the effect of gravity as is the case with lifting of free weights. Weight training and the two different types of resistance training have very different effects on the body and on the way the body moves when exercised. Weight training, for example, requires the majority of a person's strength to be applied at the beginning of the exercise motion. At this point, when the initial joint movement is made, the person has to apply as much strength to begin the motion as their muscles have to overcome the inertia of the mass they are trying to lift. After this initial motion, the overall resistance changes as the angle of the joint involved in the lifting is changed. By comparison, hydraulic resistance provides a fixed amount of resistance throughout the entire range of motion and is dependent on the speed of that motion. Elastic resistance provides the greatest resistance at the end of the motion when the resistance band used for the exercise is stretched to the greatest extent.

While a number of exercise device have been proposed in the past, there is still a need in the art for an improved exercise device which is simple and safe to use in a variety of settings including home gyms.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The device of the present invention is an exercise machine that combines safe elastic resistance training with the benefit of free-weight style exercises. The device of the present invention includes a first embodiment and a second embodiment. The first embodiment comprises a single platform that includes adjustable connector assemblies for securement of resistance bands thereon and can be utilized to perform arm curls and squats. The second embodiment includes first, second and third platforms that are hingedly engaged with each other and are positionable relative to each other so that the user is able to perform chin-ups and pull-down type exercises.

The device includes a platform with two movable elastic attachment points. The attachment points are located on each side of the platform. In use, the platform is moved to a position where it is disposed adjacent a vertical wall. The user wears a harness which is secured in place around the torso with a suitable fastener such as a hook and loop fasteners or belts. The platform has two rollers which are positionable in abutting contact with the vertical wall. The user attaches a first end of an elastic cord to one of two movable attachment points on the sides of the platform. The second end of each cord is secured to the harness to attachment points that are located near the belt line on the harness and at a location in line with the centerline of the side of the user's body. The user can then perform squats with their back positioned adjacent the vertical wall for support. This ensures that there is less danger of the user losing their balance and falling when they perform the squats. Additionally, the user can attach two more elastic cords, one to each of the other movable attachment points so that they are able to perform arm curls while they are performing squats. It is also possible for the user to double up the number of elastic cords or to use very much stronger resistance bands so s to provide them with a more intensive work-out.

The device of the present invention may be further expanded to include other movable and positional platforms which enable them to perform chin-ups and pull-down type resistance training for the arms. The device of the present invention includes step-ladder type movable joints because of their strength and sturdiness.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

A preferred embodiment of the invention, illustrated of the best mode in which Applicant contemplates applying the principles, is set forth in the following description and is shown in the drawings and is particularly and distinctly pointed out and set forth in the appended claims.

FIG. 1 is a perspective rear view of a basic platform of the exercise device in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective front view of the device in accordance with the present invention showing a user performing arm curls with a single elastic cord;

FIG. 3 an enlarged perspective view of the highlighted region of FIG. 1 showing the first connector assembly engaged on the first side wall of the platform;

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the first connector assembly shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a cross-section through the first side wall and the first connector assembly taken at right angles through the longitudinal axis of the platform, and showing the locking mechanism in a locked position;

FIG. 6 is a cross-section through the first side wall and the first connector assembly taken at right angles through the longitudinal axis of the platform, and showing the locking mechanism in an unlocked position;

FIG. 7 is a perspective front view of a harness in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a perspective rear view of the harness of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a perspective front view of a user simultaneously performing squats and arm curls on the exercise device in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a perspective rear view of a second embodiment of the exercise device of the present invention, showing an expanded platform;

FIG. 11 is perspective rear view of the exercise device of FIG. 10 showing a user in a first position and beginning to perform chin-up type exercises;

FIG. 12 is perspective rear view of the exercise device of FIG. 10 showing a user in a second position during the performance of chin-up type exercises;

FIG. 13 is perspective rear view of the exercise device of FIG. 10 shown folded up for storage;

FIG. 14 shows a side view of the exercise device of FIG. 10 shown in a folded storage position;

FIG. 16 is a top view of the exercise device shown in a folded storage position;

FIG. 16 is a front end of the exercise device shown in the folded storage position; and

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the exercise device shown in the folded storage position.

Similar numbers refer to similar parts throughout the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a first embodiment of an exercise device in accordance with the present invention, generally indicated at 10. Exercise device 10 comprises a first platform 12 having an upper wall 14, a lower wall 16 (FIG. 5), a first side wall 18, a second side wall 20, a first end 22 and a second end 24. Platform 12 has a longitudinal axis “Y” that extends between first and second ends 22, 24 and is disposed at right angles relative thereto.

Upper wall 14 comprises a generally rectangular-cubed shaped member that has a planar upper surface 14 a (FIG. 5), a lower surface 14 b, and side surfaces 14 c. Upper wall 14 further includes a first end (not numbered) that is disposed adjacent first end 22; and a second end 14 d disposed adjacent second end 24. Upper wall 14 is configured to be sufficiently strong enough to support a user 26 (FIG. 2) thereon.

As best seen in FIG. 5, lower wall 16 includes a substantially flat, planar region 16 a that is configured to rest upon a floor surface and extends between first and second side walls 18, 20 and first and second ends 22, 24 of platform. Lower wall 16 further includes a pair of upstanding flanges 16 b that are integral with planar region 16 a and run along opposing side edges of planar region 16 a. Each flange 16 b preferably extends from proximate first end 22 of platform 12 to proximate second end 24 thereof. Flanges 16 b are disposed substantially at right angles to planar region 16 a. A T-shaped flange 16 c extends outwardly from an exterior surface of flange 16 b. T-shaped flange 16 c includes a horizontal leg 16 d and a vertical arm 16 e. Leg 16 d is disposed at right angles to flange 16 b and arm 16 e is disposed at right angles to leg 16 d. Thus, arm 16 e is disposed substantially parallel to upstanding flange 16 b and is spaced a distance laterally away therefrom such that a gap 28 is defined between a portion of arm 16 e and flange 16 b.

First and second side walls 18, 20 are interlockingly engaged with lower wall 16. First and second side walls 18, 20 are substantially identical to each other, so only first side wall 18 will be described further herein. First side wall 18 comprises a generally rectangularly-shaped beam that extends from proximate first end 22 of platform 12 to proximate second end 24 thereof. The beam also extends from adjacent planar region 16 a of lower wall 16 to a distance vertically above the upper surface 14 a of upper wall 14. The beam is not solid but is instead comprised of a generally rectangular-cubed core 28 having a fin 30 that extends radially outwardly from each of the corners of the cube. An L-shaped flange 32 is provided at the free end of each fin 30. Flanges 32 are arranged so that they essentially form the corners 18 a of the beam of first side wall 18. Each flange 32 includes a shorter limb 32 a and a longer limb 32 b. The longer limbs 32 b that form the exterior surface of first side wall 18 are separated from the sides of core 28 of the beam by a gap 34. Limbs 32 b are disposed parallel to the sides of core 28 and to arm 16 b of lower wall 16. The free ends of limbs 32 b on the exterior surface of first side wall 18 are separated from each other by a space that forms a groove 36 (FIG. 1) that runs substantially from first end 22 of platform 12 to the second end 24 thereof.

In accordance with a specific feature of the present invention, each of the longer limbs 32 b defines a plurality of apertures 38 therein. Apertures 38 are oriented so that they extend through limbs 32 b generally at right angles to longitudinal axis “Y”. The apertures 38 in the exterior limbs 32 b are preferably aligned with the apertures 38 in the interior limbs 32 b proximate upper surface 14. Apertures 38 are spaced at regular intervals from each other along each of the first and second side walls 18, 20.

First end 22 comprises a planar member 40 that is engaged with upper wall 14, lower wall 16, and a first free end of each of first and second side walls 18, 20. Planar member 40 has a U-shaped upper edge 40 a, a planar lower edge 40 b, first and second side edges 40 c, 40 d and a planar exterior face 40 e. Second end 24 comprises the free ends of each of the first and second side walls 18, 20, the free ends of upper wall 14 and lower wall 16.

In accordance with a specific feature of the present invention, a first movable connector assembly 42 is engaged with each of the first and second side walls 18, 20 of platform 12. Preferably, a second movable connector assembly 44 is also engaged with each of the first and second side walls 18, 20. First and second connector assemblies 42, 44 are substantially identical in structure and function, so only first connector assembly 42 will be further described herein.

First connector assembly 42 is shown in greater detail in FIG. 4. First connector assembly 42 comprises a generally U-shaped channel member 46, a ring member 48, a base 50, and a ball member 52. Channel member 46 includes a generally U-shaped central region 46 a and a pair of flanges 46 b that extend outwardly from the free ends of central region 46 a. A hole 46 c is defined in each flange 46 b. Central region 46 a is sized to fit into groove 36 in one of first and second side walls 18, 20. Flanges 46 b are sized to fit into gap 34 between limbs 32 b and the side of core 28.

Ring member 48 includes a ring 48 a and a pair of legs 48 b that extend outwardly from a side surface of ring 48 a. Ring 48 a is illustrated herein as being generally rectangular in shape, but it will be understood that any desired shape of ring may be utilized herein without departing from the scope of the present invention. Legs 48 b are disposed generally at right angles to the plane of ring 48 a. Legs 48 b are positioned so that they may be received through holes 46 c in flanges of channel member 46 when ring and channel members 48, 46 are engaged with each other, as will be described hereafter.

First connector assembly 42 further includes base 50. Base 50 includes a generally cubic shaped housing 50 a and pairs of clips 50 b disposed on each of the housing's upper and lower surfaces. Each clip 50 b includes two recessed regions 50 c, 50 d that are shaped to selectively receive ring 48 a of ring member 48 therein, as will be hereinafter described. The pairs of clips 50 b are aligned vertically and horizontally with each other so first recessed regions 50 c are generally aligned along the same vertical plane (with reference to FIG. 4) and the second recessed regions 50 d are generally aligned along the same vertical plane. A tubular arm 50 e extends outwardly from an exterior surface of housing 50 a. Arm 50 e defines a bore 50 f therein. Although not shown herein, base 50 further includes a cavity that is defined in the interior face 50 f (FIG. 6) that is configured to receive a portion of channel 46 a therein.

Ball member 52 comprises a circular ball 52 a and a leg 52 b that is configured to be received within bore 50 f of arm 50 e of base 50. Leg 52 b includes a first region and a second region that are of two different diameters. The first region is of a smaller diameter and the second region is of a larger diameter. When ball member 52 is to be engaged with base 50, leg 52 is inserted into bore 50 f and is pushed inwardly until the outermost edge of arm 50 e is disposed proximate the exterior surface of ball 52 a. As is evident from FIG. 6, when ball member 52 is engaged with base 50, a gap 54 is defined between a region of the exterior surface of ball 52 a and the exterior surface of housing 50 a. The gap 54 has a width that is approximately equal to the length of arm 50 e.

Parts of connector assembly 42 comprise a locking mechanism that locks the connector assembly 42 in any one of a plurality of positions along the length of platform 12, as will be further described herein. The components that form part of the locking mechanism are channel member 46, base 50, clips 50 b and ring member 48.

When connector assembly 42 is to be initially engaged with first side wall 18, for example, ball member 52 is disengaged from base 50 by pulling leg 52 b out of arm 50 e. Ring member 48 is then detached from base 50 by pulling ring 48 a outwardly in the same direction as ball member 52 was detached from base 50. Ring 48 a moves from recessed regions 50 c on clips 50 b to recessed regions 50 d and then completely off base 50. Channel member 46 may then be withdrawn out of the cavity (not shown) in the interior face 50 f of base. Flanges 46 b of channel member 46 are then engaged in the gap 34 between limbs 32 b and the side wall of the core 28 of first end wall 18. This is able to be accomplished by sliding flanges 46 b channel member 46 into the gap 34 at the second end 24 of platform 12. When flanges 46 b are so engaged, the channel 46 a thereof extends through groove 36 and away from the exterior surface of limbs 32 b. Ring member 48 is then engaged with base 50 by engaging ring 48 a in recessed regions 50 d on clips 50 b such as is shown in FIG. 6. As is evident from this figure, when this occurs, base 50 is retained on channel member 46 by the frictional engagement of channel 46 a with the wall of base 50 that defines the cavity in the inner face 50 f. At this point, connector assembly 42 is latched to first side wall 18 but the locking mechanism is in the unlocked condition. FIG. 6 shows the locking mechanism in the unlocked position in that legs 48 b of ring member 48 are disposed outwardly of the exterior surface of limbs 32 b. Connector assembly 42 is free to slide along the length of groove 36 as indicated by arrow “A” in FIG. 1 when the locking mechanism is in the unlocked position.

When connector assembly 42 is in the desired location on first side wall 18, ring 48 a of ring member 18 is pushed inwardly in the direction of arrow “B” (FIG. 6). This motion causes ring 48 a to move from recessed regions 50 d over the ridges 51 and into recessed regions 50 c. This motion causes legs 48 b of ring member 50 to move through holes 38 in limbs 32 b and into the apertures 46 c in flanges 46 b of channel member 46. Once this has occurred, the locking mechanism on connector assembly 42 is in the locked condition (FIG. 5) and movement of connector assembly 42 along groove 36 is not possible until the locking mechanism is moved back into the unlocked position. It should be noted that the spring force exerted by channel member 46 keeps ring member 46 firmly engaged with base 50. When it is desired to move connector assembly 42 again, ring 48 a is grasped and is moved in the opposite direction to arrow “B” so that ring 48 a moves from recessed regions 50 c, over ridges 51 and into recessed regions 50 d. Connector assembly 42 is now able to slide along groove 36 but remains latched to first side wall 18. Second connector assembly 44 functions in the same manner as connector assembly 42.

It will be understood that connector assemblies 42, 44 are configured to be selectively engaged with the pre-drilled apertures 38 in first and second side walls 18, 20 in order to ensure non-movement of connector assemblies 42, 44 under heavy loads that are put thereon during exercise.

FIG. 2 shows the user 26 standing on the upper surface of upper wall 14 in a region where his feet are substantially aligned with first connector assembly 42. The exercise device of the present invention further includes one or more resistance bands 56. Resistance band 56 comprises an elastic band 56 a, a connector end 56 b disposed at one end of band 56 a, and a handle 56 c disposed at the other end of band 56 a. Handle 56 c preferably comprises a D-ring for easy gripping. Resistance band 56 preferably includes a substantially rigid lower section 56 d which includes connector end 56 b. This rigid section 56 d/56 c allows user 26 to hook connector end 56 b over ball member 52 without needing to bend down fully. Connector end 56 b is trapped in gap 54 between ball 52 and the exterior surface of base 50.

The user 26 grasps handle 56 c in their hand 26 a and does curls by placing their feet in alignment with first connector assembly 42 and raising and lowering their forearm as indicated by arrow “C”. This motion causes resistance band 56 to expand and contract in length as indicated by arrow “D”. The resistance applied exercises the user's biceps. Other types of resistance exercises may be performed utilizing device 10 simply by the user 26 positioning their arms and body in the correct orientation to pull the resistance band 56 in any particular direction so as to exercise particular muscle groups. The weight of the user 26 stabilizes device 10 during these motions. The user 26 may start his exercise program utilizing a single resistance band 56 engaged with the selected on of connection assembly 42 or 44. As the user 26 develops in strength, additional resistance bands 56 may be engaged with the same connection assembly 42 or 44 to provide a more resistant member that has to be pulled to exercise the user's arms. Alternatively, a stronger and less elastic resistance band may be engaged with connection assembly 42 or 44 or a plurality of stronger and less elastic bands may be engaged on the same one of the connection assemblies to give the user a more intense workout.

FIGS. 7 and 8 show another element of the exercise device in accordance with the present invention. This additional element is a harness 58 that is configured in such a manner that it may be worn on the user's torso 26 b.

Harness 58 includes a back 58 a, an adjustable waist band 58 b, a pair of adjustable shoulder straps 58 c, and bracing members 58 d. Back 58 a is ergonomically designed to fit into the lower back region of user 26. Back 58 a may be provided with compressible padding 60 on its front surface to make it more comfortable for user 26 to wear harness 58. Back 58 a is further provided with a rear surface in which one or more cavities 62 are defined. A roller 64 is mounted within each cavity on a horizontally oriented axel (not numbered) that extends between regions of the rear surface which define cavity 62. Rollers 64 preferably have a rubber-like exterior surface which provides a soft contact with wall 72 and provides a non-slip movement during use of device 10, as will be described hereafter. At least a portion of each roller 64 extends for a distance outwardly beyond the rear surface and only those portions of roller 64 contact wall 72 when device 10 is used.

Bracing members 58 d are secured to sides 58 e and are provided with connector tabs 66. Bracing member 58 d preferably are constructed for a rigid material such as rigid aluminum. The connector tab 66 is positioned on each bracing member 58 d such that tabs 66 on harness 58 will fall in a position centered on the sides of the user's body. This arrangement ensures that during use of harness 58, the resistance forces are balanced at the body centerline. FIG. 7 shows that waist band 58 b is engaged with a front surface of back 58 a and is further engaged with the interior surface of bracing members 58 d. Waist band 58 b includes a buckle 68 for securing harness 58 in place on the user's body. Instead of buckle 68, waist band 58 b may be provided with a hook and loop type fastener.

FIG. 9 shows platform 12 positioned on a flat surface such as a floor 70. In particular, platform 12 is located on floor 70 in such a position that second end 24 of platform 12 is disposed in abutting contact with a vertical wall 72. A first pair of connector assemblies 42 is positioned a short distance inwardly from first end 22 and laterally aligned with each other. A second pair of second connector assemblies 44 is positioned a spaced distance rearwardly from first connector assemblies 42 and a distance inwardly from second end 24. The second connector assemblies 44 are laterally aligned with each other. The user 26 positions his feet in general alignment with the pair of second connector assemblies 44. A first set of resistance bands 56A is engaged with the pair of first connector assemblies 42 and a second set of resistance bands 56B is engaged with the pair of second connector assemblies 44. The user 26 holds the handle ends of resistance bands 56A in his hands 26 a. The resistance bands 56B have the handle ends detached therefrom and, instead, a looped connection end 74 is provided on the free end of bands 56B. The connection end 74 is engaged with the tabs 66 on harness 58. Resistance bands 56B preferably are somewhat shorter than resistance bands 56A.

The user 26 positions his back adjacent wall 72 rollers 64 on back 58 a of harness 58 into contact with wall 72. The user 26 bends his knees to perform a squat keeping the rollers 64 in contact with wall 72 during the downward motion. When the user 26 straightens his legs, he continues to keep rollers 64 in contact with wall 72. As he moves to the straightened leg position, resistance bands 56B resist this motion and thereby enhance the exercise, strengthening the user's leg muscles. At the same time, since the user is holding the handle ends of resistance bands 56A in his hands, the movement from the bent-knee position to the straightened knee position can be accompanied by a curling motion with the arms as previously described with reference to FIG. 2. The user 26 thereby is able to simultaneously work their arm and leg muscles using the device 10 of the present invention. It should be noted from FIG. 9 that device 10 ensures that the user's torso is kept in a vertical orientation that replicates the straight back position of free-weight lifting.

As the user 26 gains strength by using exercise device 10, more than one resistance band 56A or 56B may be engaged on some or all of the pairs of connection assemblies 42, 44 to increase the resistance for performing squats and or for performing arm curls. Alternatively, a stronger and less elastic resistance band may be engaged with connection assembly 42 or 44 or a plurality of stronger and less elastic bands may be engaged on the same one of the connection assemblies in order to give the user a more intense workout.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the invention, upper wall 14 defines a compartment (not shown) that is accessible under a panel 15 (FIG. 1). Panel 15 forms part of the upper surface of upper wall 14 but may be rotated upwardly or slid outwardly in the direction indicated by arrow “A1” to permit access to the compartment. The compartment may be used for storage of resistance bands 56, 56A, 56 and harness 58. It will be understood that the compartment may be located in other easily accessible locations on first platform 12 instead of in the location indicated in FIG. 1. For instance, the compartment may be accessible from the second end 24 and the panel covering the opening to the compartment may form part of second end 24.

FIGS. 10-12 disclose a second embodiment of the present invention, generally indicated at 110. Exercise machine 110 includes a first platform 12 that has been previously described herein. Exercise machine 10 further includes a second platform 180. A first end of second platform 180 is engaged by way of a first hinge assembly 184 to second end 24 of first platform 12. Second platform 180 comprises a planar member 188 and first and second side walls 190, 192 that are secured to member 188. A first end 190 a, 192 a of first and second side walls 190, 192 is engaged with first hinge assembly 184. A second end 190 b, 192 b of first and second side walls 190, 192 is engaged with second hinge assembly 186. First hinge assembly 184 includes side plates 184 a, first sleeves 184 b that engage first and second side walls 18, 20 of first platform 12; and second sleeves 184 c that engage first and second side walls 190, 192 of second platform 180. First hinge assembly 184 includes a first locking assembly to secure second platform 180 at a desired selected angle relative to first platform 12. The first locking assembly comprises a pair of screw-in knobs 194 which secure second sleeves 184 c to side plates 184 a. Knobs 194 are threadably rotated in a first direction to unlock the first locking assembly and thereby enable second platform 180 to be pivoted relative to first platform 12 to a desired angular position. Knobs 194 are threadably rotated in a second direction to lock the first locking assembly and thereby secure the first and second platforms 12, 180 in that desired, selected angular orientation relative to first platform 12. It will be understood that side plates 184 a and first sleeves 184 b may be integrally formed. A bracing bar 196 preferably extends between second sleeves 184 c to give second platform 180 greater strength and rigidity. First hinge assembly 184 comprises a step-ladder type joint that secures first platform 12 to second platform 180 so that exercise device 110 is sturdy enough and strong enough for the user 26 to exercise thereon in safety.

Second platform 180 may be positioned relative to first platform 12 so that second platform 180 may be used in place of the vertical wall 72. In this instance, second platform 180 is positioned at right angles to first platform 12 and knobs 194 will be used to lock second platform 180 in this angular position. The user 26 will connect the resistance bands 56B to connector assemblies 44 and to harness 58. (He may also connect resistance bands 56A to connector assemblies 42 as illustrated in FIG. 9.) The user 26 will then position his back adjacent planar member 188 in such a way that roller 64 on harness 58 contact the inner surface of planar member 188. User 26 then performs squats as described previously and may also perform simultaneous arm curls if resistance bands 56A are engaged with first platform 12.

Exercise device 110 preferably further includes a third platform 182 that is secured to second platform 180 by a third hinge assembly 186. Third platform 182 is engaged by way of a second hinge assembly 186 to a second end of second platform 180. Second hinge assembly 186 includes side plates 186 a, first sleeves 186 b that engage first and second side walls 190, 192 of second platform 180; and second sleeves 186 c that engage first and second side walls 198, 200 of third platform 182. First ends 198 a and 200 a of first and second sides 198, 200 are received in first and second sleeves 186 c of second hinge assembly 186. Second hinge assembly 186 includes a second locking assembly in the form of screw-in knobs 202. Knobs 202 engage second sleeves 186 c and side plates 186 a. Knobs 202 are rotated in a first direction to unlock the second locking assembly so as to enable third platform 182 to be pivoted relative to second platform 180 to a desired angular position. Knobs 202 are rotated in a second direction to lock the second locking assembly and thereby lock the second and third platforms 180, 182 in the desired and selected angular position. It will be understood that side plates 186 a and first sleeves 186 b may be integrally formed. A second bracing bar 204 preferably extends between second sleeves 186 c to give third platform 186 greater strength and rigidity. First and second hinge assemblies 184, 186 each comprise a step-ladder type movable joint that secures first platform 12 to second platform 180, and second platform 180 to third platform 182, so that exercise device 110 is sturdy enough and strong enough for the user 26 to exercise thereon in safety.

First and second side walls 198, 200 of third platform 182 are substantially identical to first and second side walls 18, 20 of first platform 12. A plurality of connection assemblies 206 are engaged with first and second side walls 198, 200 for selective securement of resistance bands, such as bands 56, 56A, and 56B thereto to perform pull-down type exercises. Connection assemblies 206 are substantially identical to connection assemblies 42, 44 and function in the same manner.

In accordance with yet another feature of the present invention, a bar 208 is provided on third platform 182. Bar 209 extends between the second ends 198 b, 200 b of first and second side walls 198, 200. Preferably, bar 208 is mounted on a pair of mounting brackets 210, where each bracket 210 is mounted on a side surface of the respective one of first and second side walls 198, 200. Mounting bracket 210 may be movably engaged on first and second side walls 198, 200 in much the same way as connection assemblies 206. It will be understood that second hinge assembly 186 may be adjusted to position third platform 182 in a more vertical orientation relative to second platform 180 so as to effectively raise the height of bar 208 relative to upper wall 14 or may be rotated away from a more vertical orientation to lower the height of bar 208 relative to upper wall 14.

FIGS. 11 and 12 show how exercise device 110 may be used to perform chin-ups. The user 26 stands on upper wall 14 of platform 12 in a position where his feet are situated a short distance inwardly from first end 22. The user 26 grasps bar 208 so that each of his hands 26 a is positioned adjacent one of the first and second side walls 198, 200 and pulls his body upwardly in the direction of arrow “E” toward bar 208 and thereby lifting his feet 26 b off upper wall 14. When the user 26 has completed the chin-up, he lowers his body in the opposite direction to arrow “E” and replaces his feet 26 b on upper wall 14.

FIGS. 12-17 show that exercise machine 110 may be folded into a compact unit. The folding is accomplished by rotating second platform 180 downwardly in the direction of arrow “F” (FIG. 12) so that planar member 188 is disposed adjacent upper wall 14 of first platform 12. Third platform 182 is then rotated in the direction of arrow “G” so that the surfaces 198 c, 200 c are brought into a position adjacent surfaces 20 c, 18 c (FIG. 15). It will be understood that knobs 194, 202 on each of the respective one of first and second hinge assemblies 184, 186 enable the user 26 to lock the respective hinge assembly in any desired angular orientation, either for exercise purposes or for storage purposes. Knobs 194, 202 are loosened to allow the platforms to be rotated relative to each other and are tightened to lock them in desired orientations relative to each other. As shown in FIG. 13, the folded and locked exercise device 110 may itself be utilized as a weight for performing arm curls by the user 26 grasping exercise device 110 by way of bar 208 and raising and lowering it as indicated by arrow “H”.

The present device 10, 110 provides for a method of exercising which includes the steps of: engaging a first end 56 b of first resistance band 56 on first connector assembly 42 extending outwardly from first side wall 18 of first platform 12; positioning the user's body 26 on upper wall 14 of first platform 12; engaging second end 56 a of first resistance band 56 on the user's body; lengthening the first resistance band 56 by performing one of an arm curl and a squat; permitting the lengthened first resistance band 56 to return to its original length; and repeating the last two steps a desired number of times.

The method of the present invention further comprises the steps of: engaging a first end of a second resistance band 56 on a second connector assembly 42 extending outwardly from a second side wall 20 of first platform 12, where the second side wall 20 is spaced a distance from the first side wall 18; lengthening the second resistance band 56 substantially simultaneously with the first resistance band 56; and permitting the lengthened second resistance band 56 substantially simultaneously with the first resistance band 56.

The method of the present invention further comprises the step of: engaging each of the second ends 74 of first and second resistance bands 56B with a mounting tab 66 on a harness 58 worn on the user's body 26 b.

The method of the present invention further comprises the step of: positioning a roller 64 on harness 58 against a vertical surface 72/188 disposed at one end 24 of first platform 12; and performing squats with the roller engaged on the vertical surface 72/188.

The method of the present invention further comprises the step of: positioning a second platform 180 at right angles to upper wall 14 of first platform 12 to present the vertical surface 188 at one end 24 of first platform 12.

The method of the present invention further comprises the step of: positioning a third platform 182 at an angle relative to second platform 180; locking the third platform at the angle; engaging a bar 208 disposed at a free end of third platform 182; and performing one or more chin ups using bar 208.

In the foregoing description, certain terms have been used for brevity, clearness, and understanding. No unnecessary limitations are to be implied therefrom beyond the requirement of the prior art because such terms are used for descriptive purposes and are intended to be broadly construed.

Moreover, the description and illustration of the invention are an example and the invention is not limited to the exact details shown or described. 

1. An exercise device comprising: a platform having an upper wall with a first end and a second end; said upper wall being adapted to support a user thereon; a first side wall disposed adjacent a first side of the upper wall; a second side wall disposed adjacent a second side of the upper wall; a first connector assembly engaged with the first side wall, and wherein the first connector assembly is selectively movable along the first side wall; and a first resistance band having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end thereof is selectively engageable with the first connector assembly and the second end thereof is adapted to be engaged by the user supported on the upper wall.
 2. The exercise device as defined in claim 1, further comprising: a locking mechanism engaged with the first connector assembly, said locking mechanism being movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, and when the locking mechanism is in the locked position, the first connector assembly is substantially prevented from moving along the first side wall, and when the locking mechanism is in the unlocked position, the first connector assembly is movable along the first side wall.
 3. The exercise device as defined in claim 1, wherein the upper wall has a longitudinal axis extending between the first and second ends thereof; and wherein the first connector assembly is movable along a plane that is disposed substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis.
 4. The exercise device as defined in claim 1, further comprising: a second connector assembly engaged with the second side wall, and wherein the second connector assembly is selectively movable along the second side wall; and a second resistance band, where a first end of the second resistance band is selectively engageable with the second connector assembly and a second end of the second resistance band is adapted to be engaged by the user supported on the upper wall.
 5. The exercise device as defined in claim 4, further comprising: a harness adapted to be worn on the user's torso; and wherein the harness is selectively engageable with the first and second resistance bands.
 6. The exercise device as defined in claim 5, wherein the harness includes: a back, said back having a pair of sides disposed substantially at right angles thereto; a pair of shoulder straps engaged with the back and adapted to pass over the user's shoulders; a waist band engaged with the back and adapted to pass around the waist of the user; and a mounting bracket provided on each side of the back; and wherein the first and second resistance bands are selectively engageable with the mounting brackets.
 7. The device as defined in claim 6, further comprising: a first mounting tab provided on a first one of the mounting brackets on the harness; and a second mounting tab provided on a second one of the mounting brackets on the harness, and wherein the first and second mounting tabs are selectively engaged by the first and second resistance bands, respectively.
 8. The device as defined in claim 7, wherein the first and second mounting tabs are aligned with each other on the harness, and wherein the first and second mounting tabs are positioned so as to be adapted to align with a centerline of the sides of the user's torso when the harness is worn by the user.
 9. The device as defined in claim 6, wherein the back of the harness further includes: at least one roller provided on a rear surface of the back, said roller being mounted so as to rotate about a horizontally oriented axis.
 10. The device as defined in claim 9, wherein at least a portion of the roller projects for a distance outwardly beyond the rear surface of the back.
 11. The device as defined in claim 1, further comprising: a second platform; a first hinge assembly configured to pivotally orient the second platform relative to the first platform; and a first locking assembly engageable to lock the second platform to the first platform at a selected angle.
 12. The device as defined in claim 11, wherein the second platform is oriented at right angles relative the first platform when the device is in use, and the second platform is rotated into substantial contact with the first platform when the device is collapsed for storage.
 13. The device as defined in claim 11, wherein the first locking assembly is part of the first hinge assembly and includes a knob that is rotated in a first direction to lock the first locking assembly; and is rotated in a second direction to unlock the first locking assembly.
 14. The device as defined in claim 11, further comprising: a third platform; a second hinge assembly configured to pivotally orient the third platform to the second platform; and a second locking assembly movable between a locked and unlocked position, and when the second locking assembly is locked the third platform is secured to the second platform at a fixed angle, and when the second locking assembly is unlocked, the third platform is movable relative to the second platform.
 15. The device as defined in claim 14, wherein the second locking assembly forms part of the second hinge assembly and includes a knob that is rotated in a first direction to lock the second locking assembly; and is rotated in a second direction to unlock the second locking assembly.
 16. The device as defined in claim 14, wherein the third platform includes: a first side wall; a second side wall; a third connector assembly and a fourth connector assembly; and wherein the third connector assembly is movably engaged with the first side wall of the third platform, and the fourth connector assembly is movably engaged with the second side wall of the third platform; and wherein the third and fourth connector assemblies are selectively engaged with the first resistance band.
 17. The device as defined in claim 16, further comprising a bar extending between a free end of the first side wall of the third platform and a free end of the second side wall of the third platform, and wherein the third platform is selectively positionable relative to the first platform to enable the bar to be used to perform chin-ups.
 18. The device as defined in claim 1, wherein the first platform is adapted to be stabilized by the user's weight when the user is supported on the upper wall.
 19. The device as defined in claim 1, further comprising: a storage cavity defined in the upper wall, and a panel selectively positionable across an opening to the storage cavity.
 20. A method of exercising comprising: engaging a first end of a first resistance band on a first connector assembly extending outwardly from a first side wall of a first platform; positioning one's body on the upper wall of the first platform; engaging a second end of the first resistance band on the body; lengthening the first resistance band by performing one of an arm curl and a squat; and permitting the lengthened first resistance band to return to its original length; and repeating the last two steps a desired number of times.
 21. The method as defined in claim 20, further comprising the step of: engaging a first end of a second resistance band on a second connector assembly extending outwardly from a second side wall of the first platform, where the second side wall is spaced a distance from the first side wall; lengthening the second resistance band substantially simultaneously with the first resistance band; and permitting the lengthened second resistance band substantially simultaneously with the first resistance band.
 22. The method as defined in claim 21, further comprising the step of: engaging each of the second ends of the first and second resistance bands with a mounting tab on a harness worn on the body.
 23. The method as defined in claim 20, further comprising the step of: positioning a roller on a harness worn on the body against a vertical surface disposed at one end of the first platform; and performing squats with the roller engaged on the vertical surface.
 24. The method as defined in claim 23, further comprising the step of: positioning a second platform at right angles to the upper wall of the first platform to present the vertical surface at one end of the first platform.
 25. The method as defined in claim 24, further comprising the step of: positioning a third platform at an angle relative to the second platform; locking the third platform at the angle; engaging a bar disposed at a free end of the third platform; and performing one or more chin ups using the bar. 